Written by Diane Benjamin - editor

BCPA – who are they feeding?

by:  Diane Benjamin

I reported previously on Like-Kind exchanges at the BCPA.  http://blnnews.com/2013/09/26/proof-wjbc-isnt-real-media/

The BCPA listed like-kind exchanges with both The Garlic Press and Lucca Grill for $2500.  The BCPA would provide advertising in exchange for food supplied by both.

I sent the following Freedom of Information Act request to the City of Bloomington:

Details of the food supplied to the BCPA by Lucca Grill and Garlic Press under the like-king exchange agreement.

Number of shows the $2500 for each applied to
How the $2500 worth of food was calculated, such as 250 pizzas, 200 sandwiches, etc
Who the food provided was served to

This is the response I received:

I have reached out to the staff at the BCPA in an attempt to answer the questions raised by a previous FOIA.

The $2,500 sponsorships are paid by individuals/businesses.  These dollars are directed towards a particular artist’s contract.
.
The BCPA also offers in kind sponsorships.   Restaurants like the Lucca Grill/Garlic Press may provide food to an artist in exchange for advertising/marketing services.
.
There are occasions when an artist’s contract may include food items.  As an industry practice, this information is generally not shared.
.
Venues do not want artists comparing these services as this might increase the cost of bringing artists to a particular venue, i.e. comparing what each venue provides and/or comparing artists.
.
.
I hope that clears things up.  It didn’t for me.
.
.
.
.
.

2 thoughts on “BCPA – who are they feeding?”

Leave a Reply to web staffCancel reply